More on Tango.

[hermeticdog]

Now it's a matter of time.

Tango isn't in any pain, or discomfort. He eats well, plays and still has an active sex-life with his stuffed dog. The cancer is localized on his left hip. Right now I'm exploring options on how to either slow the tumor's growth, or perhaps stop it, while it's still early. There are no guarantees, and the prognosis is ill, but it may buy him time, at least. Any little, quality time will be precious.

There are a couple things I'm looking at. One is an herbal extract of the bloodroot plant called neoplasene which has had success in treating animals with cancer. There is a clinic in my state--though unfortunately is three hours away from where I live--which uses neoplasene as a treatment option, and I'm going to look into contacting them for some kind of help. I'm also trying another herbal supplement remedy (the name eludes me at the moment), that is rich in antioxidants and helps slow the progress of cancer in pets.

I'm going to put up a yard sale this weekend. Old books, anything I can get ahold of, really. I need to sell some stuff off--I need money to cover gas and his medical expenses. And mine.

Heh. It's funny. I could care less about my three lumps in my neck. I haven't even thought about them much, and they disappeared completely from my mind after discovering Tango's lump. I guess some people would think my priorities are out of whack. I just can't concern myself with things that are currently unknown and out of my control. I tried confiding in some coworkers today about Tango, and all they did was curl their lips up at me in contempt and say, "It's just a cat." Funny. I wasn't mad at them for saying that. I simply pitied them for not having the experience of forming a deep connection with another animal other than a human one. The only tragic part about it is things like this--they don't live as long as people, although they really need to.

And no, if he starts to suffer, I'm not going to selfishly prolong it for my sake. It would only break my heart worse. But, while he's still pain-free, while the damn thing inside him is still small enough, I'm going to find a way to fight it back, prolong his life, and the quality of it, the best way I can.

Tango came into my life at a very significant point, and was a major source of comfort and therapy (and still is). He can detect my migraines, and helps soothe me when they come on by laying next to me or on top of my chest, and purring forcefully enough to make the both of us vibrate. He plays fetch. He comes when he's called. He throws his head back and howls, when in fear or in ecstasy, his tail curled up over his back, making him look like a small red husky in the throes of passion. Follows me everywhere. We're like two peas in a pod. One is never without the other when in the house. He trails me like a shadow at all times.

While he's still active and has a good quality of life, I will fight for it. He's certainly fought for me, in his own simplistic and straightforward animal-way.

Thank you to everyone who responded, and offered their words of condolence, support, and prayers. Tango will certainly need all the prayers he can get. You guys are awesome, and I am deeply appreciative. I wish I knew what else to say. My mind is on other things right now, but my gratitude runs deep.

Comments

[lyssabard.livejournal.com]

I am going to be cleaning my altar outside and I will light a candle for him and for you.

Pets are family. It's sad that sometimes other people don't see that--and you are right. More tragic for them in that this is a joy of which they cannot partake.

Peace to you both.

[primaldog.livejournal.com]

Thank you so much. I'm deeply touched, and I apologize for snapping at you. I was experiencing a lot of emotions, and instead of backing down and collecting myself like I should have, I snapped. Things on the internet can be so easily misread.

We'll talk/see each other soon.

[lyssabard.livejournal.com]

It's ok. I asked you the same tough questioned I asked myself. I meant well. Just know that those questions are meant to stir your heart to action, not anger or upset you. (Though I guess it's a kind of action, heh. :))

I know this is a hard time. You are strong, however, and you are good with your animal family members.

Remember we are here if you need us.

[martianmooncrab.livejournal.com]

I had my Newt for 18 years, and he too played fetch.

I would like to contribute to Tango's fund, but I dont do paypal, you have a POBox?

[primaldog.livejournal.com]

If you email me at cynanthropos(at)gmail I can send you an address--with one caveat. Commission me for something, or peruse the items on my store. I have many things there I haven't listed, just ask. I'm going to set up a fundraiser for him over the weekend.

I've never accepted money before without giving something in return. Is there anything you're looking for? Something you think I could make for you?

Thank you so much. This means a whole lot.

[martianmooncrab.livejournal.com]

sent email, again, I just want to help Tango.

[aineotter.livejournal.com]

Yes; they really don't live long enough.

I recall one proff telling us in vet school; "you have to realize, all of your patients will die". And it's true; unless it's a tortise and parrot only practice, they'll all grow old in what's really just a few years. It's what breaks my heart about rats, I just barely get to know them and they're gone. But it's still worth it.

[primaldog.livejournal.com]

Yeah, your professor is absolutely right. And it's so true, and so worth it.

Maybe I'm spoiled. In my childhood, my cats lived to be 19. At 13, Tango's too young to be snatched away from me, and aside from that cancerous lump, he's active and full of vitality. I don't even think he realizes anything is wrong, and it only breaks my heart more. That's why I'm determined to do whatever I can to enhance his quality of life and extend it as long as possible.

[aineotter.livejournal.com]

You know, he probaly *doesn't* realize that anything is wrong and that's not a bad thing. He's just enjoying life and not worrying about what he hasn't done, or pining over what he'll miss seeing or any of the other things humans do in similar circumstances. And he's so lucky to have someone looking out for him who does have that double edged sword of foresight and planning that most of the other animals lack.

[unknownbinaries.livejournal.com]

*hug*

[alfrecht.livejournal.com]

Apologies for not writing earlier...

I'm of course very sorry to hear about Tango's condition generally, and for your own pain as a result of it. But I'm also extremely glad to hear that you have not given up hope, and that there is, in fact, hope. Things won't ever be "back to normal," most likely, but at least there are options.

And in the meantime, do take care of yourself as well, please...There are more than a few of us who would be upset to learn that something has happened to you, to say the least! ;)

[7deadlysins.livejournal.com]

I'll keep you both in my thoughts :/

Can I buy this as a way of helping? I'd need to send you cash though, I don't use Paypal anymore.

[primaldog.livejournal.com]

Thanks so much, it's greatly appreciated.

You most certainly can. Just click to purchase and select the money order option at checkout. If you do send actual cash, put it in a card or something to conceal it well. I'll mail it off to you ASAP.

Thanks again. Every little bit helps.

[7deadlysins.livejournal.com]

Yeah, it's not much, but I'm glad I can help, even in a small way. :)

[helen99.livejournal.com]

> I could care less about my three lumps in my neck. I haven't even thought
> about them much, and they disappeared completely from my mind after
> discovering Tango's lump

I understand the priority. A friend/companion will be more important to you than yourself. Nonetheless, for the sake of the people who care about you, could you at least just get the checkup done?

[white9-fox.livejournal.com]

I wouldn't be who I am without the animals in my life. I have many more years to live than they do, so I'd rather put up the money for them so they can get as much out of life as they can.

I don't understand your coworker's reactions. If they can't give a crap about a pet, then how can one expect them to give a crap about a person?

I'll send prayers your way.

[dogemperor.livejournal.com]

Worrying more for the kitty than yourself isn't whacked out--hell, I tend to do the same thing. And good to know you're not giving up on this, as long as it can be fought and all--hopefully he'll have more good time with you.

And whatever I can do to help, let me know, seriously.

[jolantru.livejournal.com]

*hugs* Heart and strength.

[ignited-spark.livejournal.com]

Will keep both of you in my prayers.

[rainstardragon.livejournal.com]

Does tango like asparagus? I have a cat that loves to steal mine when I had it. I recently heard from my mother that a friend of hers has been feeding her husband 1/2 cup pureed asparagus daily, and his lung cancer tumors shrank and seemed to have slowed growth. Not sure what the ratio would be for a kitty, or if it would even work for a kitty, but I though I'd share that information.

[opalblack.livejournal.com]

they don't live as long as people, although they really need to.

They don't need to. We need them to.

I am so so sorry and I hope I can find a way to help.

[kth-dragon.livejournal.com]

*hug* Good luck.

[spottedfur.livejournal.com]

*sends you and Tango good mojo*

[lemonfruitpie.livejournal.com]

I agree, it's really sad to see people who have never had a strong connection with animals. They really don't know what they're missing.

It sounds like you and Tango have done a world of good for each other. I'm glad you two found each other, and I really hope that your cat will continue enjoying life until it's time. And who knows, maybe Tango will end up surprising everyone *sends good vibes*

Could I please get your paypal address? I'd like to donate a little to his fund.

[christinemis.livejournal.com]

*hugs*
Sorry I read this late.
Hang in there.
He is a lucky cat.
He is loved.